a single pursuit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single pursuit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to one specific goal or activity that someone is focused on or dedicated to. Example: "His life has been defined by a single pursuit: to become a world-class musician."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

It seems obsessives are defined by their ability to focus on a single pursuit at the cost of all else.

The Guardian - Books

Passion for me is not a single pursuit but a thing that keeps me learning and experimenting.

The New York Times

According to the exhibition's literature, Ms. Hadid's inspirations hark back to the utopian early days of modernism, when art, architecture and design were thought of as a single pursuit, creating a bold new order.

The New York Times

Andy Brigham, like many who have settled in this small town, has found a place that affords him more than a single pursuit — he owns the hardware store and is the judge of the Stewart County General Session and Juvenile Court.

The New York Times

The dating is imprecise, so the researchers can't say with certainty whether the prints represent several events that took place during a span of time or just a single pursuit; perhaps the sloths were travelling as a group and were collectively harassed.

The New Yorker

If the film suggests that there's something bittersweet about a life dedicated to a single pursuit cultivated with an almost religious fervor, it also stands in awe of its subject's seemingly inexhaustible, self-abnegating capacity to remain attuned to the expression of others.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Like anyone who has dedicated his entire life to a single, specialized pursuit, Dr. Illy is a man of pronounced views.

The New York Times - Food

It is on Page 283 that a reader can find the barest mention of The Order of E Clampus Vitus, one of the oldest and oddest entities in a state known for having a few, a Gold Rush-era organization whose goofball sensibilities are offset by a single, serious pursuit: a tendency to plaque all things historical, an obsession that continues to this day.

The New York Times

"As I see it, Mr Turnbull's life has constituted a single-minded pursuit of wealth and personal advancement, even to Australia's highest office.

The Guardian

Mr. Richardson has dominated state government by force of personality and a single-minded pursuit of economic development and raising the state's profile — along with his own.

The New York Times

Ogun has dedicated his life to a single-minded pursuit of his career running an auto-repair shop, while his sibling, a wandering soul who has just returned from prison, is happily aimless.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a single pursuit", ensure the context clearly defines what that pursuit is. Providing specific details enhances clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a single pursuit" in contexts where multiple goals are being pursued. This phrase implies a singular focus, and misusing it can confuse your reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single pursuit" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves to identify and describe a specific goal or endeavor, emphasizing its solitary and focused nature. This is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single pursuit" is a grammatically sound phrase that describes dedication to one specific goal. While Ludwig confirms its correct usage, its frequency is uncommon, appearing mainly in news, scientific and encyclopedic contexts. Related phrases such as ""a singular focus"" or ""a dedicated endeavor"" offer subtle shifts in emphasis. A key writing tip is to provide context for the pursuit to ensure clarity. Misusing the phrase when multiple goals are present is a common error. Overall, the phrase conveys a sense of focused commitment to a specific objective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a singular focus

Changes the noun from 'pursuit' to 'focus', emphasizing concentration rather than active striving.

a dedicated endeavor

Replaces 'pursuit' with 'endeavor', suggesting a more formal and committed undertaking.

a concentrated effort

Focuses on the energy and attention directed towards a specific aim, differing slightly from the long-term implication of 'pursuit'.

a solitary quest

Highlights the individual nature of the undertaking, adding an element of adventure or challenge.

one specific aim

Simplifies the phrase, replacing 'pursuit' with 'aim' to denote a target or objective.

a primary objective

Emphasizes the importance and precedence of the goal, making it the most important target.

a central goal

Highlights that the goal is the centerpiece of some activity, differing slightly from the long-term implication of 'pursuit'.

a unique ambition

Emphasizes that the goal is the centerpiece of some activity, differing slightly from the long-term implication of 'pursuit'.

a specialized field

Shifts the focus to an area of expertise or study, rather than the active pursuit itself.

a chief purpose

Replaces 'pursuit' with 'purpose' emphasizing the intention rather than the course of action.

FAQs

How can I use "a single pursuit" in a sentence?

You can use "a single pursuit" to describe someone's dedication to one particular goal. For instance, "Her life was defined by "a single pursuit": mastering the art of classical piano".

What are some alternatives to "a single pursuit"?

Alternatives include "a singular focus", "a dedicated endeavor", or "one specific aim" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a single-minded pursuit" instead of "a single pursuit"?

Yes, "a single-minded pursuit" is a correct and more common variation. It emphasizes the determination and focus involved in the pursuit. Consider also that while ""a single pursuit"" simply indicates the presence of one goal, "a single-minded pursuit" highlights the unwavering dedication towards that goal.

What's the difference between "a single pursuit" and "multiple pursuits"?

"A single pursuit" refers to one specific goal or activity, whereas "multiple pursuits" indicates involvement in several different areas or objectives.